Casino Night aims to raise awareness of eating disorders

Ten million women and one million men are affected by an eating disorder, according to the National Eating Disorders Assn. With statistics like those, it's likely that almost everyone knows someone who has struggled with the disorder.

The Orange County chapter of the International Assn. of Eating Disorder Professionals (IAEDP) hopes to raise awareness of the endemic problem during its annual Casino Night fundraiser in Laguna Niguel on Saturday.

Held at Cheryl Burke Dance Studio in Laguna Niguel, the night of fundraising will include games, music, food and drinks.

"Our hope is to reach out to the Orange County community and provide education and awareness about eating disorders," Lesli Maul, Orange County IAEDP chapter president, said in a statement. "Eating disorders have no age, gender or racial boundaries and require specialized treatment. The consequences of an eating disorder can be devastating for individuals and their loved ones."